BLOCKS, in sea-language, are pieces of wood belonging to ships, in which the shivers of pulleys are placed, and wherein the running-ropes go. Of these some are single, some double; and some have three, four, or five, shivers in them. They are named and distinguished by the ropes they carry, and the uses they serve for.
Mounting Block, an eminence usually of stone, cut in steps or notches, serving as a help to mount on horseback. These were much in use among the ancients, who were unacquainted with stirrups. The Romans erected them at proper stations along all their great roads.